Stormwater Management in the Everglades

Once a vast area of natural wetlands, much of the land in the area transitioned to agricultural use in the mid-20th Century after the construction of the Herbert Hoover Dike almost completely enclosed Lake Okeechobee, sharply reducing the flow of water into the region. Additionally, in the last several years high levels of polluted storm water runoff have impacted wildlife habitat and affected water sources, and in turn the recreational interests and livelihoods of local residents and businesses.

 Part of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP) — the overall plan for restoration and protection of regional waters and ecosystems — the C-44 STA project combines nature-based design with engineered structures to move water safely and naturally through a system of man-made canals and wetlands.

Designed to capture and treat 65 percent of the average annual storm water runoff in the C-44 basin, the system comprises the wetlands, 32 miles of berms, 30 miles of canals and 63 water control structures. The C-44 reservoir, which covers 3,400 acres of land, has an average water depth of 15 feet and holds 16 billion gallons of water. The pumping station is capable of pumping water in and out of the reservoir at a rate of 1,100 cubic feet per second, or about 717 million gallons per day.

After the capture and natural treatment process is completed, the water is returned to the canal to complete its journey to the Indian River Lagoon and St. Lucie Estuaries.

WSP served SFWMD as program and construction manager for the project. Under its contract, WSP ensured the STA is constructed to proper standards so that it meets the established water quality goals.

The C-44 project provides myriad benefits to surrounding environments and communities.

The STA wetlands absorb excess nutrients contained in the water, including phosphorous and nitrogen, as well as pesticides, herbicides and other pollutants currently discharged into the estuaries. The project also controls the sudden release of freshwater peak flows, thereby building the resilience of the ecosystem to storms.

The function of the wetlands improves conditions for water birds and other wildlife, and the diverse saltwater marine life in the southern end of the Indian River Lagoon. The endangered Everglade Snail Kite, which had been severely threatened by the degradation of wetlands, disruption of water flow and high levels of copper in the soil and water has begun to make a prominent return — ecologists monitoring the impact of the project discovered more than 20 nests prior to its completion. These benefits should continue to grow as the ecological improvements mature and assimilate with the region.

Additionally, the economic value this project brings to the region, known as the Treasure Coast, is significant. The area is a popular destination for fishing, boating and outdoor enthusiasts. The  algae bloom caused by increased nutrients in the water has critically impacts these activities. The improvements from the C-44 STA is expected to create a more desirable destination and a business boost for hotels, restaurants and real estate.